10+ Best Audio Books for 9-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to entertain and educate your 9-year-old? Look no further! Audio books for 9-year-olds offer a fantastic blend of fun and learning, perfect for keeping them engaged. From captivating adventures to intriguing mysteries, we’ve rounded up a variety of audio books that are sure to capture the imagination of young listeners. Keep reading to discover our top picks for audio books that will both entertain and inspire your child!

Fun Audio Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White, illustrated by Garth Williams
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale follows a young pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a wise spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte crafts clever messages in her web to save him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that teaches lessons about friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, all of which are important themes for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and children learning about friendship and loss.

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The first book in the Harry Potter series introduces Harry Potter, a young boy who discovers he is a wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Here, he makes friends and begins his journey in the magical world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sparks imagination and introduces themes of bravery, friendship, and the importance of choices, making it a magical and engaging introduction to reading.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and anyone new to the fantasy genre.

• The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Fairy Tale
  • Synopsis: This story tells of an unusual mouse named Despereaux who loves music, literature, and a princess named Pea. It explores his adventures as he navigates a world filled with darkness and light.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages readers to be brave and to follow their hearts, showcasing the importance of being true to oneself.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers and young readers who enjoy fairy tales with a twist.

• Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Matilda is a bright little girl who is misunderstood by her family. An avid reader with a sharp mind and a kind heart, she discovers she has a special telekinetic gift. Matilda uses her abilities to create her own sense of justice at home and at her school.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the power of reading and the resilience of children, inspiring readers to believe in their own abilities to overcome challenges.
  • Perfect for: Book lovers and anyone who feels a bit different and dreams of doing something extraordinary.

• The BFG by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around a young girl named Sophie and her adventures with the Big Friendly Giant (BFG). Together, they set out to stop the other giants from eating children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a fun and fantastical tale that stretches the imagination while teaching lessons about friendship and courage.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories of giants and adventures, and those who enjoy rooting for the underdog.

Educational Audio Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Mary Lennox, a sour-faced orphan who transforms an abandoned garden into a place of beauty, simultaneously changing her own life and the lives of those around her.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, responsibility, the healing power of nature, interpersonal relationships
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully illustrates the power of positivity and the impact of nature on our well-being, making it a timeless tale of transformation and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about personal growth and the magic of nature.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This story follows a bored young boy named Milo who unexpectedly receives a magic tollbooth and drives through it in his toy car, ending up in a whimsical world that rekindles his sense of wonder.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, vocabulary, appreciation for learning and mathematics
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor, adventure, and learning in a unique way that captivates and educates, encouraging children to find joy in knowledge and exploration.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds and anyone who needs a reminder of the joy in learning.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel chronicles the life of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is mistakenly sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert at Green Gables. Her adventures and misadventures in the small town of Avonlea are both heartwarming and humorous.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Imagination, social skills, emotional intelligence
  • Why we recommend this book: Anne's zest for life and her ability to find wonder in the mundane make this book a delightful read that encourages positivity and creativity.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers and anyone who loves a good story about growing up and finding one's place in the world.

• The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Philosophical
  • Synopsis: This poetic tale features a young prince who travels the universe, gaining insights into human nature through his encounters with various adults on different planets.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Philosophy, critical thinking, understanding of human behavior
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers profound insights into love, loss, and loneliness that resonate with readers of all ages, wrapped in a simple yet captivating story.
  • Perfect for: Young philosophers and those who enjoy deep thoughts mixed with fantastical journeys.

• Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Drama
  • Synopsis: This novel is a touching story of a boy and his two hunting dogs and their adventures in the Ozark Mountains. It explores themes of determination, triumph, and tragedy.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional resilience, persistence, the bond between humans and animals
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling tale of adventure and friendship that also teaches valuable life lessons about the importance of hard work and the power of love and loss.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers looking for a heartfelt story of loyalty and perseverance.

Challenging Audio Books for 9-Year-Olds

• A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O'Keefe as they embark on a journey through space and time to rescue Meg's father from the evil forces that hold him prisoner on another planet.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex concepts like quantum physics, good versus evil, and the dynamics of family relationships.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines science and fantasy in a way that stimulates the imagination and challenges young readers to think critically about the world around them.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and explorers who love a good adventure.

• The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Four gifted children are recruited by the eccentric Mr. Benedict to go on a secret mission at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where they must solve a series of puzzles and thwart a global disaster.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book features intricate puzzles and moral dilemmas that require advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of being true to oneself, all wrapped up in a thrilling and intellectually engaging narrative.
  • Perfect for: Puzzle solvers and strategic thinkers who thrive on challenges.

• The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Magic Realism
  • Synopsis: This story centers around a young girl named Luna, who is accidentally enmagicked as a baby and raised by a witch. As Luna grows, her magic begins to emerge with dangerous consequences.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex themes such as sacrifice, power, and the consequences of actions, all conveyed through rich, poetic language.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a beautifully written tale that challenges readers to think deeply about love, responsibility, and the nature of evil.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate beautiful language and deep, thought-provoking narratives.

• Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is sent to Camp Half-Blood where he embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why this book is challenging: It incorporates Greek mythology in a modern setting, requiring readers to connect ancient stories with contemporary themes and characters.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an action-packed series that makes ancient Greek mythology accessible and exciting, fostering an interest in classical literature.
  • Perfect for: Young mythology buffs and action-seekers.

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1930s Paris, this beautifully illustrated novel follows Hugo, an orphan who lives in the walls of a train station, as he tries to solve the mystery of his father’s death and a mechanical automaton.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's unique blend of text and intricate illustrations requires readers to interpret visual elements as part of the storytelling process.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a visually stunning, engaging story that blends history, technology, and mystery in a unique format.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and young historians who love puzzles and stories of adventure.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 9-year-old get the most out of their audiobook experiences, you're in the right place. Audiobooks are not just for listening; they can be a fantastic tool for developing great reading habits. Here are some fun and effective exercises to try:

• Create a Listening Schedule
  • What it is: Set specific times during the day or week dedicated to listening to audiobooks.
  • How it helps: Encourages regular reading habits and helps in time management.
  • Tips: Align listening times with daily routines like after homework or during breakfast.

• Discuss the Story
  • What it is: Have a discussion about the audiobook's story, characters, and themes after listening.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and critical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions to encourage thoughtful responses.

• Draw the Scene
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters based on the description from the audiobook.
  • How it helps: Improves listening skills and stimulates creative expression.
  • Tips: Provide a variety of art supplies to make this activity more engaging.

• Audio-Book Pair Reading
  • What it is: Listen to a chapter via audiobook, then read the same chapter in print.
  • How it helps: Reinforces understanding and improves fluency.
  • Tips: Choose books that are age-appropriate and interesting to the child.

• Retell the Story
  • What it is: Encourage your child to retell the story in their own words after listening.
  • How it helps: Boosts memory and understanding of the narrative.
  • Tips: Use voice recording tools to capture the retelling for added fun.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Pause the audiobook at key points and predict what will happen next.
  • How it helps: Develops analytical skills and engagement with the content.
  • Tips: Discuss why they think the story will unfold in that way, using clues from the story.

These exercises are designed to make listening to audiobooks an active, engaging, and educational experience for your child. By incorporating these activities, you'll help your child develop a deeper love for reading and a better understanding of how stories work. Happy listening!